TYLER, Texas – Beginning November 15, AT&T will start discontinuing copper landline service in certain rural communities, with Verizon slated to follow on November 16. The move reflects the companies’ effort to phase out aging infrastructure that is costly to maintain and increasingly vulnerable to weather damage, theft and outages.
Why the copper network is being retired
The copper networks that carry traditional telephone service have been in place for decades. Over time, the metal wiring has become harder to repair, and incidents of copper theft for scrap have risen. Both carriers note that only a small fraction of their customers still use these lines – AT&T reports roughly 1% of its subscribers rely on copper, while Verizon’s figure stands at about 3% nationwide.
What the loss means for rural Texans
Even as most households have shifted to cellular and internet‑based communication, copper landlines continue to serve an important role in many rural areas where cell coverage can be spotty or nonexistent. Corded phones draw power directly from the line, allowing calls to go through during power outages that might knock out cell towers. In emergencies, a landline 911 call provides dispatchers with a fixed physical address, helping first responders locate callers more quickly.
For families that depend on a reliable, always‑on connection – especially seniors, people with disabilities, and households without robust broadband – the impending shutdown raises legitimate concerns about staying connected when other options fail.
How to find out if you’re affected
Customers who may be impacted can verify their service status by contacting the carriers directly. AT&T customers should call 800‑288‑2020, and seniors or individuals with disabilities can reach a dedicated line at 1‑800‑772‑3140. Verizon customers can call 1‑800‑837‑4966 for assistance and information about alternative services.
Both companies say they will notify affected customers well in advance of any service termination and will offer options to transition to newer technologies, such as fiber‑optic broadband, digital voice services or wireless solutions.
Community response
Local leaders and community groups have voiced the need for continued reliable communication options in rural Texas. Many emphasize that any transition should ensure that emergency services remain accessible and that families are not left without a dependable way to call for help.
While the shift away from copper aligns with broader industry trends toward modern, high‑speed networks, the timing underscores the importance of ensuring that rural Texans are not left behind as the digital age advances.
Looking ahead
As AT&T and Verizon move forward with their retirement plans, residents are encouraged to explore available alternatives early, assess their connectivity needs, and work with local officials to address any gaps in service. The goal is to preserve the safety and peace of mind that reliable communication provides for families across the Lone Star State.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
